Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I represent people too and they heard this argument in great detail and took the common sense approach we have adopted. That is why we have come forward with a proposal in line with our commitment, as I said we would. We are not coming back from the Áras to look for money in the bottom drawers of offices in the Department; we are basing this on what is affordable, targeted and credible. I hope people will be in better humour tomorrow.

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